Phrases Expressing Surprise or Shock

I'm taken aback.

C2

Meaning

Surprised and slightly shocked.

Example sentences

John: 'Alice, I've been awarded the Nobel Prize!'<br>

Alice: 'I'm taken aback. That's incredible!'

John: 'I'm taken aback. I had no idea things were that bad.'

Alice: 'The company is filing for bankruptcy.'<br>